National Ag Day And Food Safety
Baton Rouge, La. (March 24, 2020) – March 24 is National Ag Day. Although the usual Ag Day celebrations are canceled as we work to get a handle on the COVID-19 crisis, health safety and food security of the nation’s food supply are at the forefront.
“More than ever, we must recognize the importance of our farmers, ranchers, foresters and producers. They are still working to keep the food supply chain plentiful, safe and healthy,” Commissioner of Agriculture and Forestry Mike Strain, D.V.M., said.
“I have gotten many questions concerning food safety during this uncertain time,” Strain said. “Currently, there is no evidence that food or foodborne exposure to this virus is connected with the transmission of this respiratory illness.”
Strain urges everyone to continue to follow CDC guidelines for health, hygiene, cleaning and disinfection.
Here are links from LSU AgCenter with helpful information to minimize risk related to COVID-19 for produce growers and farmers markets:
Best practices to minimize COVID-19 risk while harvesting fresh produce
https://www.lsuagcenter.com/profiles/aiverson/articles/page1584982168555
Best practices to minimize COVID-19 risk at the farmers market
https://www.lsuagcenter.com/profiles/aiverson/articles/page1584983561595
Cleaning and disinfection of food-contact and touch surfaces for the COVID-19 virus
https://www.lsuagcenter.com/profiles/aiverson/articles/page1584982539502